In addition to offering six comfort grades ranging from very plush to ultra firm, the foam meets California Bulletin 117 standards to slow fire risk. The CAL 117 approval permits use of this foam for indoor applications that were previously prohibited. The state’s standards are the nation’s most stringent for use of outdoor foam materials indoors – even in screened-in areas. Although all burning polyurethane foams generate dangerous carbon monoxide, CAL 117 EZ-Dri is less toxic than comparable foam materials which contain halogenated fire retardants.

There are many reasons foam cushions for outdoor casual furniture would be brought indoors; these include severe weather, high winds or even protection of the fabric in hot, sunny conditions to prevent fading when not in use.

“The ability to develop outdoor cushioning foam that meets CAL 117 was a long and arduous process,” a company spokesman said. One of the design challenges concerned requirements of an open pore size to permit water to flow through cushions to drain quickly for virtually immediate use. At the same time, because of its open pore construction, there is a significant opportunity for high oxygen content to feed a fire. Crest Foam scientists developed a non-halogenated fire retardant that, “not only incorporated well, but also substantially retarded foam fire,” the spokesman said.

EZ-Dri polyether-polyurethane reticulated foam outdoor cushioning materials are constructed with large, open pores for maximum water drainage and air circulation, permitting their use quickly after being saturated or dampened. This material provides long-lasting wear and comfort combined with fast-drying properties, making EZ-Dri cushions ideal for casual furniture applications in homes, hotels/resorts and many other commercial facilities. EZ-Dri foam is strong and resistant to most chemicals including most cleaning agents, solvents, alkalis and acids. A built-in additive, Ultra-Fresh, inhibits growth of stain- and odor-causing bacteria, mold, mildew and fungus.